The Isle of Man Natural History and Antiquarian Society (IOMNHAS) continues its summer programme of walks and excursions with two outings in quick succession.

They both have their focus on wildlife but will be visiting very different parts of the island.

On Saturday (August 5), Louise Samson will lead a walk and talk exploration of the Ayres National Nature Reserve, looking at the species and habitats which make this part of the island so special.

This will include her giving a summary of how the breeding birds of conservation concern have fared so far during 2017, as well as opportunities to observe migrating small waders and to look at special habitats.

Those wishing to go along on this excursion should meet at 2pm on Saturday at the Rue car park (grid reference NX407032).

The second excursion will take place on Wednesday evening (August 9), when Nick Pinder will lead a visit to see Port Soderick’s bats.

Beginning at 8.45pm in the Port Soderick shore car park (grid reference SC346726), it is hoped that this night-time foray to the area will reveal some of the seven or eight species of bats to be found in the Isle of Man.

People going along are advised to bring a torch with them.

Note that there is a strictly no dogs policy on IOMNHAS excursions.

Anyone with queries regarding these excursions, or others in the summer programme to be found listed on the IOMNHAS website, www.manxantiquarians.com, should telephone excursions secretary Patricia Newton on 861560 or 366269 or email her at [email protected]

Next month’s excursion, on Saturday, September 9, will see MNH’s Andrew Johnson leading a walk exploring the fort’s of the island’s south coast.